Let Pablo live out his best life as a barn cat. He might slow down as he ages, but that is where Pablo is happy. He doesn't have to become a housecat. He can always be an outdoor barn cat. Just provide him with whatever comforts he needs to do so. Pretty much what you've been doing already, food, water, shelter, a warm bed, and lots of love.
This 100%. You might have to give him some additional comforts, like a cozy house on the porch, but he’s happiest when he is outside. Let him be happy for as long as he can.
@@jessecunningham9924 there's also cases where animals will change as age slows them down. I remember family friends having a mostly outside dog who became a mostly inside dog (with a doggy door) in his later life
A cat's behavior can change quite a bit once they hit their senior years. My advice is to just keep an eye on Pablo's health and wait for him to show you that he's getting tired. Then bring him inside. If you fear he might disappear before then, you can try a GPS collar.
growing up I had a cat who lived her life indoors but I had trained to use the bathroom outside. she would go to the door when she needed or just wanted out. one time when she was old she just never came back. it was winter time and I was frantically searching for her. our neighbors found her in the spring when all the snow had melted. I was devastated!! I was so sad that she went off to die alone somewhere although now I know that's something a lot of animals do. I wouldn't want to have another pet go thru that experience alone, out in the cold etc. so I definitely would recommend a gps collar
When a cat is ready to retire, they will let you know 😉 We had a senior cat who was the leader in the neighbourhood, but then he got old and he was like " nah from now on I'm going to live in your house" I miss him
Yepp. My neighbor's barncat moved in with me a few years ago. He spent the sunny summer days outside and the winters in front of the fire place. He was around 20 when he died.
They will let you know. Either he will want to come in or live out his days at the barn or go off. As long as you have a warm place for kitties in the barn (heated pad or insulated cat house) and food. They adjust and if it isn't enough he will try and move in with you. He is still youngish. When he's 12 you can revisit the concept, as the average age is 13, but it's not unusual for them to hit 18. You are right about the fleeting mortality. It's a heart breaker. Is he showing signs of being old or infirm?
Let Pablo live as he pleases. He’ll let you know if any change needs to be made. Forcing anything will make him miserable. My barn cats lived to 16 and just shy of 20 yrs old. They were born in a barn. They wanted no part of being in the house!! We had them both neutered, and vaccinated. Took care of then when sick or injured. And had them peacefully put down when it was time. We were so fortunate to have such long lived outdoor animals. They were ferocious hunters although they were fed high quality food twice a day. They hunted until the very end. They were snuggly boys that sought us out for attention. I miss them dearly.
For a barn cat, Pablo’s got some pretty sweet digs. You provide food, shelter, companionship, medical help when needed. I don’t think you need to change anything that you’re doing. Pablo is happy as he is. He may start slowing down as he ages but that just means he’ll spend more time napping and less time hunting. Just make sure he has lots of comfy spots to stay happy. I don’t think he’s the type of cat to want to become a couch potato in his sunset years. He wants the freedom of the outdoors and that’s ok. Not every cat wants to be a house cat and that’s ok.
A life well lived is worth infinitely more than a long dull one, if you've done all you can to keep them engaged and healthy then you can let them fade out with a clear mind and positive memories.
Pablo can live a long live because he is so well cared for, he will see his days out being where he loves in and around the barn, when he gets much older he will find a place where he is most comfortable where you can place a lovely bed for him but he will still be the boss. Cats can live into their 20's so there is plenty of years left in Pablo yet ❤️
Barn cats tend to just disappear when the time comes. It's like they know. My aunt lost many old cats like this. Sometimes though you need to help them if life becomes too hard.
We have an 18 year old barn cat. She only gets to roam during the day, she’s deaf now and can’t hear trouble coming. For safety reasons, all of our barn cats are locked in the feed room at night. They were getting in too many scraps with wildlife and causing high vet bills. Bonus: there’s no more mice in the feed room 🤠
Yes, my cat who adopted us, is an indoor/outdoor cat. We had a similar experience with cat fights so for years now he has to come in at night and can go out when the sun comes up. We still fight about it, but as he has gotten older, he spends more time napping inside and when he goes outside he likes to sit on the porch and nap.
Yes, my cat who adopted us, is an indoor/outdoor cat. We had a similar experience with cat fights so for years now he has to come in at night and can go out when the sun comes up. We still fight about it, but as he has gotten older, he spends more time napping inside and when he goes outside he likes to sit on the porch and nap.
Was gonna say something similar have watched afew channels that have farm dogs for animal protection and those dogs get retired but never truly because although you can decide to stop putting them in the pen with the animals the dog will never feel comfortable staying inside for a night or anything like that can always buy a new young dog and retire the old one but can never force the old dog to stay inside. Feel it’s probably similar for Barn cats
I'm not sure what I could offer as a suggestion personally. it's hard to explain to a cat that they're allowed to retire from work, lol. maybe it's just because I grew up in the countryside, but I think so long as he's being taken care of, and getting his regular vet visits, I think he's just living his best life 💙 I think he is okay as he is & that he is happy to spend his golden yours outside.
Cats live a long time. Up to 22+ years. Let him live outside he loves it ❤️ Just feed him and love him and keep an eye on him. He will be fine ❤ I’ve had cats My whole life and had 3 who lived to 22 years old. One lived outdoors because that was his happy place. Pablo ran up to you and you responded to him. ❤ You’re doing fine!
@@goatcheese4878 Friskies wet food can 2x a day and dry food. (Chicken flavored) all day to snack on at will. They were loyal very clean affectionate healthy and well cared for. Even came when called their name.
actually I just learned average cat lifespan is 12-13. lots live longer though. mine just hit 21 and she's still super healthy. just sleeps a lot but it's also winter and she liked to spend most of her time outside so she's passing time
Mine will be 17 soon, she's indoor/outdoor on a farm. Just another generic breedless tabby cat I found dumped at a gas station as a kitten. She's gentle with all my animals, even the chicks, and won't go to the bathroom inside. She asks to go outside, and we let her in when she's jumps at the door or window. She loves being stretched out by the heater on a winter day.
My cat was an outdoor cat and he lived to be about 19! Though of course we did keep him inside for the later years of his life (probably from like 17-19 years old).
As others have stated make a room in the barn that provides him/ them a place to be comfortable. Boxesto hid in, warm beds, a shelf in front of a window where one can lounge in the sun. Freedom to come & go. He will always want to stroll around outside. Many of these this things you can start on now and work making it better over the years.
I would just let him do what he loves to do. Just keep an eye on him as he ages but cats are happiest when they are allowed to do what they love. Trying to force a change, in my opinion, would just stress him out and make him miserable. I do love the idea that you are thinking about his future and what is best for him. That's truly a sign of a loving owner.
Pablo should be comfy and warm in the barn. Of course if he sleeps out side it’s his choice. They all get fed properly, so I think you are doing what they need. Unless he gets sick, he should be just fine for now. I’m sure you will adjust his care as needed.
You could always have him be an indoor outdoor cat. Based on how you feed him you could bring him in at night and let him come and go as he wants in the morning.
Maybe in the future there will be a catio for Pablo? So he can be outside, but also restricted so you can keep an eye on him? Probably not needed for a few more years though :)
I think Pablo is like the rest of us. He doesn't want to be rushed into retirement. When he's ready for the rocking chair and fireplace, he'll let you know. 😊
I tried to take care of a stray and it was absolutely miserable for her because her cousin's and sisters were outside the house. There's 6 other cats outside. She became happy again once I let her out. You might be right because cats are much like humans in personality and the want to be free but maybe Pablo wants to die as a barn cat, who knows.
Just try to get him used to sheltering in a place where you can control the temperature and protect him from the wind. You might have to invest in enough warm shelters for all so he isn’t displaced. I have a 16 year old feral cat that defies my expectations but she is too wild to confine. I’ve tried and failed. Just do your best to keep him happy and healthy and that’s all you can ❤
Pablo is a happy little guy and could go strong for plenty more years. You take proper care of your animals. If Pablo can’t keep up with the barn cat life I’m sure when that time comes he will become a great house cat like Lil
You could take months or years to slowly transition him. When you see him at the back door asking to come in but letting him out when he wants to go out. He is not trapped
You are doing grate with Pablo. Let him be. Food,water,love,warm sleep shelter. That is all he needs. He looks like he is having wonderfull life. Just enjoy while he is there with you.
As others have said, giving him dedicated spaces that are alternatives for being outside might be best. A heated cat house, a section of the barn dedicated to him, a catio, etc. It may also be worth trying to bring him in at night, making sure that there are multiple litter boxes (potentially in the spaces you noticed him urinating in?) and giving him something special for dinner when he's inside the house- whatever that may be. That way he can associate being inside as being okay.
Let him be. Keep an eye on him as you already do. Make sure he always has somewhere warm and dry to hide. Had outdoor cats on my dads farm for years. The oldest lived to 22 one day he went for a walk and never came back.
I love how cats do that. I've only had to put 1 cat down. the rest went for walks or got hit by a car...okay 2 cats. my only cat is 21. I told her I won't get another till she goes.she hates every other pet lol. she's still super spry.
I say once they get older and you think they're starting to feel their age, just make a cozy spot outside. Chicken heat lamps are great way to give some extra heat. Soft bed options, be it a bed bed or extra hay. You just make a spot and hope he likes it because if he's miserable inside, how is that a fair nursing home as he ages? Gotta find a comfy spot and lure him there lol
You need a setup that gives him the choice of where to be. That could be as simple as a cat flap into the house (you can get ones that allow you to control which cats can use them) or you could need something in-between being a completely outdoor cat and being in the house if being in the house isn't right for him - a catio of some kind.
I like to think he's already in his retirement. He's already living the free life. Since he runs free , and getting fed. I don't think thier is much more you can do for him. You already have done it all for him. You two are great cat parents.
An option could be to create a space for him within the barn, or another inside area he knows, and make it avaliable for him to enter? I think an eventual tracking collar for when he gets older will also be a good idea - you can get some pretty thin collars that's not a bother to the animals. It could allow him to roam free where he enjoys it, but also give you the avaliability to track him if he starts wandering less/if you can't find him and he may need help.
ya I read that 1/3 of every cat older than 13 had cat dementia. it sucks to worry your cat got lost and is scared. I've dealt with that a lot. but cats like their freedom so it's a worrisome choice I make
A cat house with a heated bed would be an excellent start. He’s gorgeous for a nine year old feline. I doubt he needs anymore than what you’re already providing.
As a landscape designer I would watch kitties identify their spots like to take a nap in a spot of sunshine at a certain time of day etc and so maybe to put a tracker on him for the sake of knowing and when he starts to reduce his "area" make more visits and find his perches , nap spots etc ...visiting him in his spots bonds him to you and the places...
The fact that Pablo is fixed actually adds at least 10 more years to his lifespan. Let him be and just keep an eye out for any possible infections. He'll be fine.
@@arcan762 Data revealed neutered male cats live, on average, 62 percent longer than unneutered males and spayed female cats live, on average, 39 percent longer than unspayed female cats.
I completely understand not wanting to think of our cats in older life and when they "cross the bridge." My spouse and I are facing that within the last week with our first cat who is twelve years old (indoor cat). She has been diagnosed with two different cancers with no chance of recovering. It is breaking our hearts and souls. Completely understand trying to find what is best for (working) pets. Well wishes to everyone and thing on your farm.
I would let Pablo do what he loves, making sure he has choices of extra comfort available in all seasons. I had a cat live to be almost 20. Who knows, Pablo could be around for another 9 years. 😻
You could try building a "catio" Basically an enclosed space with all sorts of different fun activities that cats love and has easy indoor access. This would make it so that if Pablo wants to come inside, he can, but he also has access to an outdoor space. Plus if you build it right, you might just find you have an extra house for some chickens or geese that you have to keep separate from the flock.
Their mortality breaks our hearts yet we would and couldn't live without them!! That's a heartbreaking 💔 thought as well!! I'll take the heartbreak 💔 along with how ever many years I'm fortunate enough to have with each and every one of my darlings!🥰💖🐈💖🐈⬛💖
Pablo rocks! He knows where he wants to be & has everything he needs. Pablo will let you know if he wants in the house but it looks like he loves the barn. I had a feral cat that went out everyday. All day When I would walk the dog Storm would come running from wherever she was & walk with us no matter the weather. Rain, snow didn't matter. Then every night at 11pm she would scratch at the door ti come in for the night.
I think you know exactly what you need to do to ensure that Pablo has the best twilight years possible. The answer is to just keep doing what you’re doing. Pablo is so much happier doing what he was born to do.
My bubby is 12 now. I remember the day we got him, we were both so young. Life is fleeting but it doesn't have to be miserable. If your loved ones are happy doing what they do help them live the fullest happiest life.
Take your cues from Pablo. Let him tell you what he wants to do in his retirement. Give him a warm place in the winter with food and water that he doesn't have to work for, but freedom to go on a hunt in the days that he feels up to it. Don't be surprised if he exits the farm in his own time and on his own terms. That is the very best any of us can hope for.
I've found that offering my older barn cats more places to nap in front of south facing sunny windows, a heated mat (it only gets warm when they sit or lay on it)in the winter and warm water to drink in the coldest weather, makes all the difference!
I have an 18 year old Persian house cat… when I found him at the shelter, he had been declawed front and back (the monsters!) but he still loves being outside (as long as it’s warm and sunny). Pablo will tell you what he needs as he grows old, but it sounds as if he’ll want to live out his days as a pampered outdoor barn cat.
My grumpy kitty lived to 18 years old, so Pablo may only be middle aged. But it's sweet that you're concerned. He it's definitely living his best life. ❤️
You already know. Play it by ear. When you get a gut feeling, follow that. Having owned a cattery, that is the best advice I have ahead of time. Old cats love those heated mats sold by Dr. Foster and Smith. I suspect that catalog is still findable online. Good luck. You are a kind soul.
Perhaps a special partial outdoor/indoor hoop-coop-style enclosure connected to a shed for aging barn cats? You could even have enclosed tunnels running from the enclosure into the barn and even into the bird yard to let them keep patrolling their territories (although it would take quite a bit of work and may appear quite unsightly).
The thing is us you love one you have to set them free. That definitely goes for cats. Freedom is just doing what they like. Even if his life becomes shorter, when he needs you, he knows you’re there
Our Tibby cat is a 2005 model and she is still going! She was a feral kitten who we gentled, spayed and lived in and out of the barn. She eventually got friendly and became a house cat visitor but demanded to go out as she pleased. Today she is enjoying the comforts of inside life, but is still a demanding priss to go out and hunt, lol. Don't fret.. Pablo will let you know how to handle it when the time comes.
10 is pretty young. Not young cat, but healthy. With our cats that have been indoor/outdoor and living in a rural area, we just made it possible for them to come inside as they aged, but they preferred to hang out outside most of the time. Honestly, I think that's why they were so healthy and active for so long. They had the right amount of self directed outdoors and indoors time.
Honestly, I don't know how any animal, barn or otherwise, could ask more than you give them. They are blessed to be with you ❤ I will warn you that many professional barn cats never, EVER adjust to the idea of being indoors, and may go off by themselves when they sense the time is near 😢
How about making a mini-cat size barn closer to the house, so that you can feed him there so he can shrink his patrol area, and maybe a GPS tracker? This would give you guys a bit more peace of mind he's nearby? He's an outstanding outdoor cat, and overall, him being outside is the best thing for him.
Well I'm 55 yrs old and I've had cats all my life. I have added many rescues to my life and wouldnt change a thing. I call them my kids. My mom calls me animal poor but they come first. Good food and worming them on a regular basis ,with all the mice that they eat, will help them. Currently I have to make the decision I hate to make. Chico is 20 yrs old hes still hanging in there eating and using the litter box. I've had him since he was a kitten, I would call him "my other son" and he is. The kindest boy ever. I have been crying for months knowing this day is coming. My heart will shatter when he takes his last breathe. The hardest part about rescue is saying goodbye. 💔😭😭😭😭 I love how you and Allison love your animals. More people should be like that. We can only give the best life we can and love them. Thank you for being a good human.💯
Pablo may appreciate coming into the house as his age progresses. When he slows down and has difficulty climbing, running, etc., I'd offer him the choice of indoor comfort. He may behave then. Thank you for caring for your barn cats so well.❤️❤️❤️😽😽😽😽
If Pablo lives in your farm barn, he's protect from rain and snow. All you need to do is put a cardboard box with pet blankets. And every day give him plenty of water and food. Also every day talk to him, caress him and tell him that you love him very much. Tell him that you want him to live many years healthy and happy with you.
Barn cats that don’t want to be inside are living their best life. Humans love them and care for them and they get to do what their instincts demand. I lived in VT for years and knew farmers that would bash unwanted puppies in the head and drown kittens if the didn’t want them. But some farmers felt about their pets the same way we all feel. Knowing a devastating heartbreak is coming eventually for all of us.
Have a warm shed for him, with everything that he would need such as food and blankets. Make sure there is plenty of space so you can lock him in there when he's sick and needs to be kept safe and comfortable
Make sure Pablo has access to warm, comfortable places to sleep, good food, and love...and when it seems like his time is ending, don't let him suffer. It's the best thing we can do for these wonderful creatures we share with whom we share lives. It hurts, but if you've given him the best possible life, it helps ease some of the sadness- and you seem to take great care of him. That line, 'the fleeting mortality of your pet...' that made me tear up, but it has never stopped me from having a pet. Their little lives are short, but they are wide lives when shared.
My cat lived (and lived her best life) for 20 years. She was feral as a little kitten and she was tough to calm down. After about 5 or 6 years she became the best cat with a good strong personality. She became an indoor cat young, because she was FIV positive from birth. I was told she wouldn't live to be 2 years old. They are resilient. I let her be the cat she wanted to be, let Pablo live the life he wants and look after him.
Some barn cats will always be barn cats at heart. They never adjust to being a house cat. You provide him all the necessities he needs to be a comfortable and happy barn cat. Speaking as a veterinarian, with animals we have the blessing of balancing quality with quantity of life.
I work on a farm where stray cats become our barn cats. We had one who got very sick and we had to take him to the vet. One of our volunteers kept him at her house and it was the same thing. He was absolutely miserable. So once the stitches were healed we brought him back to the barn. We converted an old chicken coop that we had for raising chicks for just him. Put a little cat door on it so that he has complete peace and quiet and a home to go into so he's a little more protected. About 4 years later we found him laying in the coop snuggled and cozy but it passed away. Sometimes it's just about finding the happy medium
You need a cat garden. Kinda like a really huge chicken cage that make so cat can be outside without going too far - and being safe from the predators, land and air. Many responsible owners closer to or in cities build those things, some cats can go out from the window but some of those are for "outside" cats. You have space so you can put in a lot of different structures to hide or climb in - and places to be in a sun. It would be nice retirement home.
Maybe setting out a rubber maid tote as a warm box with blankets and stuff inside would be a nice middle ground between inside and outside, or setting up a deck for him, I love your connection with himx😊
My oldest just passed away last week, and you def notice changes in their behavior (RIP my sweet Eva, oh how I miss her). Just love them like you do, and try to give them as much attention as you can as they age. Fleeing is a perfect word. No matter how much you prepare, you'll never be ready for that day. But we will be here as a community to comfort any loss and help get through trauma and grief
My outdoor cat spent his entire life outdoors and that's where he was most happy. I would only bring him in when he was sick or the temps were too high, but he was not happy. He lived his last days outside and seemed very happy.
it sounds like you already have the answer in your heart to let him live out the rest of his life out doors maybe in a few years as he gets older try to bring him in once again to see if he finally likes the comfort of the indoors. we had an cat that hated the inside life but when she was about 14 we brought her inside and she was happy and lived the remaining time of her life in luxury
Let Pablo live out his best life as a barn cat. He might slow down as he ages, but that is where Pablo is happy. He doesn't have to become a housecat. He can always be an outdoor barn cat. Just provide him with whatever comforts he needs to do so. Pretty much what you've been doing already, food, water, shelter, a warm bed, and lots of love.
This 100%. You might have to give him some additional comforts, like a cozy house on the porch, but he’s happiest when he is outside. Let him be happy for as long as he can.
@@jessecunningham9924 there's also cases where animals will change as age slows them down.
I remember family friends having a mostly outside dog who became a mostly inside dog (with a doggy door) in his later life
Our old outside cat wandered off when it was her time😢 spared us the heartbreak of seeing her pass but was sad still knowing she was gone.
I could imagine him doing escapehs and working anyway after retirement
I really thought you helped give solid advise !
A cat's behavior can change quite a bit once they hit their senior years. My advice is to just keep an eye on Pablo's health and wait for him to show you that he's getting tired. Then bring him inside. If you fear he might disappear before then, you can try a GPS collar.
The GPS collar is a great idea for any outside pet.
@@sophiaallen-hirrons as long as he doesn't get it caught on anything
@@IbelongtoJesus. that's true too. It would need to be a break away collar
Only problem is, collars get caught and then they hang in the tree.
growing up I had a cat who lived her life indoors but I had trained to use the bathroom outside. she would go to the door when she needed or just wanted out. one time when she was old she just never came back. it was winter time and I was frantically searching for her. our neighbors found her in the spring when all the snow had melted. I was devastated!! I was so sad that she went off to die alone somewhere although now I know that's something a lot of animals do. I wouldn't want to have another pet go thru that experience alone, out in the cold etc. so I definitely would recommend a gps collar
When a cat is ready to retire, they will let you know 😉 We had a senior cat who was the leader in the neighbourhood, but then he got old and he was like " nah from now on I'm going to live in your house" I miss him
Exactly. Pay attention, and I think you'll know when. Just follow his lead on what he wants. No need to overthink it now.
Yepp. My neighbor's barncat moved in with me a few years ago. He spent the sunny summer days outside and the winters in front of the fire place. He was around 20 when he died.
Yep I had an outside cat. Hated the indoors. But when he became sick. He said ima live here now and just moved in.
They will let you know.
Either he will want to come in or live out his days at the barn or go off. As long as you have a warm place for kitties in the barn (heated pad or insulated cat house) and food. They adjust and if it isn't enough he will try and move in with you. He is still youngish. When he's 12 you can revisit the concept, as the average age is 13, but it's not unusual for them to hit 18. You are right about the fleeting mortality. It's a heart breaker. Is he showing signs of being old or infirm?
The new barn could have a designated cat space, for elderly kitties, sick ones or those needing to get warm in winter😸
Or just the old barn that they are more comfortable in. But a real dedicated space, with safe heat etc.
A dedicated space is a good idea
There's already a pretty sweet set up in the barn with heated sleeping tents/boxes. He'll probably be fine as long as he stays close to home.
Let Pablo live as he pleases. He’ll let you know if any change needs to be made. Forcing anything will make him miserable.
My barn cats lived to 16 and just shy of 20 yrs old. They were born in a barn. They wanted no part of being in the house!! We had them both neutered, and vaccinated. Took care of then when sick or injured. And had them peacefully put down when it was time. We were so fortunate to have such long lived outdoor animals. They were ferocious hunters although they were fed high quality food twice a day. They hunted until the very end. They were snuggly boys that sought us out for attention. I miss them dearly.
For a barn cat, Pablo’s got some pretty sweet digs. You provide food, shelter, companionship, medical help when needed. I don’t think you need to change anything that you’re doing. Pablo is happy as he is. He may start slowing down as he ages but that just means he’ll spend more time napping and less time hunting. Just make sure he has lots of comfy spots to stay happy. I don’t think he’s the type of cat to want to become a couch potato in his sunset years. He wants the freedom of the outdoors and that’s ok. Not every cat wants to be a house cat and that’s ok.
A life well lived is worth infinitely more than a long dull one, if you've done all you can to keep them engaged and healthy then you can let them fade out with a clear mind and positive memories.
Pablo can live a long live because he is so well cared for, he will see his days out being where he loves in and around the barn, when he gets much older he will find a place where he is most comfortable where you can place a lovely bed for him but he will still be the boss. Cats can live into their 20's so there is plenty of years left in Pablo yet ❤️
Barn cats tend to just disappear when the time comes. It's like they know. My aunt lost many old cats like this. Sometimes though you need to help them if life becomes too hard.
We have an 18 year old barn cat. She only gets to roam during the day, she’s deaf now and can’t hear trouble coming. For safety reasons, all of our barn cats are locked in the feed room at night. They were getting in too many scraps with wildlife and causing high vet bills. Bonus: there’s no more mice in the feed room 🤠
Yes, my cat who adopted us, is an indoor/outdoor cat. We had a similar experience with cat fights so for years now he has to come in at night and can go out when the sun comes up. We still fight about it, but as he has gotten older, he spends more time napping inside and when he goes outside he likes to sit on the porch and nap.
Yes, my cat who adopted us, is an indoor/outdoor cat. We had a similar experience with cat fights so for years now he has to come in at night and can go out when the sun comes up. We still fight about it, but as he has gotten older, he spends more time napping inside and when he goes outside he likes to sit on the porch and nap.
Barn cats never retire. What makes Pablo happy is being outside and free. You’re helping him live his best life by letting him do what he loves.❤️
Was gonna say something similar have watched afew channels that have farm dogs for animal protection and those dogs get retired but never truly because although you can decide to stop putting them in the pen with the animals the dog will never feel comfortable staying inside for a night or anything like that can always buy a new young dog and retire the old one but can never force the old dog to stay inside. Feel it’s probably similar for Barn cats
I'm not sure what I could offer as a suggestion personally. it's hard to explain to a cat that they're allowed to retire from work, lol. maybe it's just because I grew up in the countryside, but I think so long as he's being taken care of, and getting his regular vet visits, I think he's just living his best life 💙 I think he is okay as he is & that he is happy to spend his golden yours outside.
Cats live a long time. Up to 22+ years. Let him live outside he loves it ❤️ Just feed him and love him and keep an eye on him. He will be fine ❤ I’ve had cats
My whole life and had 3 who lived to 22 years old. One lived outdoors because that was his happy place. Pablo ran up to you and you responded to him. ❤ You’re doing fine!
what did you feed them?
@@goatcheese4878 Friskies wet food can 2x a day and dry food. (Chicken flavored) all day to snack on at will. They were loyal very clean affectionate healthy and well cared for. Even came when called their name.
9 is still very young - if he's happy in the barn leave him in the barn 💘
actually I just learned average cat lifespan is 12-13. lots live longer though. mine just hit 21 and she's still super healthy. just sleeps a lot but it's also winter and she liked to spend most of her time outside so she's passing time
I agree, our cats average life spans are 19 years old.
We take care of them, the best way we can.
The lifespan of indoor vs outdoor cats vary a lot.
Mine will be 17 soon, she's indoor/outdoor on a farm. Just another generic breedless tabby cat I found dumped at a gas station as a kitten. She's gentle with all my animals, even the chicks, and won't go to the bathroom inside. She asks to go outside, and we let her in when she's jumps at the door or window. She loves being stretched out by the heater on a winter day.
My cat was an outdoor cat and he lived to be about 19! Though of course we did keep him inside for the later years of his life (probably from like 17-19 years old).
As others have stated make a room in the barn that provides him/ them a place to be comfortable. Boxesto hid in, warm beds, a shelf in front of a window where one can lounge in the sun. Freedom to come & go. He will always want to stroll around outside. Many of these this things you can start on now and work making it better over the years.
Pablo is not even half the age of what my cat was when he passed at 20. Pablo is not close to done yet 😌
I would just let him do what he loves to do. Just keep an eye on him as he ages but cats are happiest when they are allowed to do what they love. Trying to force a change, in my opinion, would just stress him out and make him miserable. I do love the idea that you are thinking about his future and what is best for him. That's truly a sign of a loving owner.
I agree
Any species unhappy when doing what they love? Weird comment
@@CaribouOrange your reading comprehension is a tad off. Read the comment several times until you see where you made your mistake. 🤷♀️
Pablo should be comfy and warm in the barn. Of course if he sleeps out side it’s his choice. They all get fed properly, so I think you are doing what they need. Unless he gets sick, he should be just fine for now. I’m sure you will adjust his care as needed.
Morgan, you’re a kind soul. When the time comes I’m sure you will make Pablo’s retirement active yet relaxing.
You could always have him be an indoor outdoor cat. Based on how you feed him you could bring him in at night and let him come and go as he wants in the morning.
Maybe in the future there will be a catio for Pablo? So he can be outside, but also restricted so you can keep an eye on him? Probably not needed for a few more years though :)
This was my first thought as well. It might not work for Pablo, but I think it would be worth trying
This is a great idea ❤ I wonder if my husband would let me build a stall onto our house for my geriatric horse 🤔
@@Kr1st1n4.H sending all the positive vibes your way 💓 I hope he does!
@Melissa Smith 🤣🙏🙏🙏 here's hoping 🙏🤞 Unfortunately he's VERRYY allergic to horses so I doubt it but hey, a girl can dream?! 🤷♀️🤣🤣
I think Pablo is like the rest of us. He doesn't want to be rushed into retirement. When he's ready for the rocking chair and fireplace, he'll let you know. 😊
... retirement is fine till you get sick ...
I tried to take care of a stray and it was absolutely miserable for her because her cousin's and sisters were outside the house. There's 6 other cats outside. She became happy again once I let her out.
You might be right because cats are much like humans in personality and the want to be free but maybe Pablo wants to die as a barn cat, who knows.
Just try to get him used to sheltering in a place where you can control the temperature and protect him from the wind. You might have to invest in enough warm shelters for all so he isn’t displaced. I have a 16 year old feral cat that defies my expectations but she is too wild to confine. I’ve tried and failed. Just do your best to keep him happy and healthy and that’s all you can ❤
Pablo is a happy little guy and could go strong for plenty more years. You take proper care of your animals. If Pablo can’t keep up with the barn cat life I’m sure when that time comes he will become a great house cat like Lil
As long as he has a warm place to rest his bones….let him be where he loves best !
You could take months or years to slowly transition him. When you see him at the back door asking to come in but letting him out when he wants to go out. He is not trapped
You are doing grate with Pablo. Let him be. Food,water,love,warm sleep shelter. That is all he needs. He looks like he is having wonderfull life. Just enjoy while he is there with you.
As others have said, giving him dedicated spaces that are alternatives for being outside might be best. A heated cat house, a section of the barn dedicated to him, a catio, etc.
It may also be worth trying to bring him in at night, making sure that there are multiple litter boxes (potentially in the spaces you noticed him urinating in?) and giving him something special for dinner when he's inside the house- whatever that may be. That way he can associate being inside as being okay.
Let him be. Keep an eye on him as you already do. Make sure he always has somewhere warm and dry to hide.
Had outdoor cats on my dads farm for years. The oldest lived to 22 one day he went for a walk and never came back.
This
It is sad for him or her gone and never come back. I do not like it at all. I love to be with the cat until she or he die.
I love how cats do that. I've only had to put 1 cat down. the rest went for walks or got hit by a car...okay 2 cats. my only cat is 21. I told her I won't get another till she goes.she hates every other pet lol. she's still super spry.
He needs a catery in the barn 🥰
I say once they get older and you think they're starting to feel their age, just make a cozy spot outside. Chicken heat lamps are great way to give some extra heat. Soft bed options, be it a bed bed or extra hay. You just make a spot and hope he likes it because if he's miserable inside, how is that a fair nursing home as he ages? Gotta find a comfy spot and lure him there lol
Pablo will always be the GOAT of the barn cats
he lived his entire life outside. just let him be happy in his habitat
You need a setup that gives him the choice of where to be. That could be as simple as a cat flap into the house (you can get ones that allow you to control which cats can use them) or you could need something in-between being a completely outdoor cat and being in the house if being in the house isn't right for him - a catio of some kind.
On our farm, our house/barn cat lived to be 20 years old.
imagine how many rodents it took care of :)
I like to think he's already in his retirement. He's already living the free life. Since he runs free , and getting fed. I don't think thier is much more you can do for him. You already have done it all for him. You two are great cat parents.
An option could be to create a space for him within the barn, or another inside area he knows, and make it avaliable for him to enter?
I think an eventual tracking collar for when he gets older will also be a good idea - you can get some pretty thin collars that's not a bother to the animals. It could allow him to roam free where he enjoys it, but also give you the avaliability to track him if he starts wandering less/if you can't find him and he may need help.
ya
I read that 1/3 of every cat older than 13 had cat dementia. it sucks to worry your cat got lost and is scared. I've dealt with that a lot. but cats like their freedom so it's a worrisome choice I make
A cat house with a heated bed would be an excellent start. He’s gorgeous for a nine year old feline. I doubt he needs anymore than what you’re already providing.
I believe they have several of them on the porch. Past video showed. Different beds for winter use.
Their love makes our lives so much richer.
As a landscape designer I would watch kitties identify their spots like to take a nap in a spot of sunshine at a certain time of day etc and so maybe to put a tracker on him for the sake of knowing and when he starts to reduce his "area" make more visits and find his perches , nap spots etc ...visiting him in his spots bonds him to you and the places...
The fact that Pablo is fixed actually adds at least 10 more years to his lifespan. Let him be and just keep an eye out for any possible infections. He'll be fine.
lol what?
@@arcan762 Data revealed neutered male cats live, on average, 62 percent longer than unneutered males and spayed female cats live, on average, 39 percent longer than unspayed female cats.
I completely understand not wanting to think of our cats in older life and when they "cross the bridge." My spouse and I are facing that within the last week with our first cat who is twelve years old (indoor cat). She has been diagnosed with two different cancers with no chance of recovering. It is breaking our hearts and souls. Completely understand trying to find what is best for (working) pets. Well wishes to everyone and thing on your farm.
I would let Pablo do what he loves, making sure he has choices of extra comfort available in all seasons. I had a cat live to be almost 20. Who knows, Pablo could be around for another 9 years. 😻
Don't worry. When the time is right, Pablo will tell you what he needs. Cats are like that.
You could try building a "catio" Basically an enclosed space with all sorts of different fun activities that cats love and has easy indoor access. This would make it so that if Pablo wants to come inside, he can, but he also has access to an outdoor space. Plus if you build it right, you might just find you have an extra house for some chickens or geese that you have to keep separate from the flock.
Adopting a pet is like signing a contract to have your heart broken at a later date but they're worth it.
Their mortality breaks our hearts yet we would and couldn't live without them!! That's a heartbreaking 💔 thought as well!! I'll take the heartbreak 💔 along with how ever many years I'm fortunate enough to have with each and every one of my darlings!🥰💖🐈💖🐈⬛💖
Just love him like he is. He's an outside critter. Just make sure you don't take his happy spots! 😉
Pablo rocks! He knows where he wants to be & has everything he needs.
Pablo will let you know if he wants in the house but it looks like he loves the barn.
I had a feral cat that went out everyday. All day
When I would walk the dog Storm would come running from wherever she was & walk with us no matter the weather.
Rain, snow didn't matter. Then every night at 11pm she would scratch at the door ti come in for the night.
Fleeting mortality of pets is one of the hardest things to think about. I completed understand how hard it is.
Pablo gives grizzled working man vibes of 'I don't need to retire' and 'this is my retirement' 😂
I think you know exactly what you need to do to ensure that Pablo has the best twilight years possible. The answer is to just keep doing what you’re doing. Pablo is so much happier doing what he was born to do.
My bubby is 12 now. I remember the day we got him, we were both so young. Life is fleeting but it doesn't have to be miserable. If your loved ones are happy doing what they do help them live the fullest happiest life.
Give him an easily accessible warm and safe place he can reach and then let him live his best life outside as he wants.
Take your cues from Pablo. Let him tell you what he wants to do in his retirement. Give him a warm place in the winter with food and water that he doesn't have to work for, but freedom to go on a hunt in the days that he feels up to it. Don't be surprised if he exits the farm in his own time and on his own terms. That is the very best any of us can hope for.
I've found that offering my older barn cats more places to nap in front of south facing sunny windows, a heated mat (it only gets warm when they sit or lay on it)in the winter and warm water to drink in the coldest weather, makes all the difference!
I have an 18 year old Persian house cat… when I found him at the shelter, he had been declawed front and back (the monsters!) but he still loves being outside (as long as it’s warm and sunny). Pablo will tell you what he needs as he grows old, but it sounds as if he’ll want to live out his days as a pampered outdoor barn cat.
My grumpy kitty lived to 18 years old, so Pablo may only be middle aged. But it's sweet that you're concerned. He it's definitely living his best life. ❤️
Our barn cat only comes in when she is cold or scares. She asks to go out so she comes in at night and enjoys the day time.
You already know. Play it by ear. When you get a gut feeling, follow that. Having owned a cattery, that is the best advice I have ahead of time. Old cats love those heated mats sold by Dr. Foster and Smith. I suspect that catalog is still findable online. Good luck. You are a kind soul.
Pablo is very very handsome kitty cat!🥰💖🐈💖
Perhaps a special partial outdoor/indoor hoop-coop-style enclosure connected to a shed for aging barn cats? You could even have enclosed tunnels running from the enclosure into the barn and even into the bird yard to let them keep patrolling their territories (although it would take quite a bit of work and may appear quite unsightly).
The thing is us you love one you have to set them free. That definitely goes for cats. Freedom is just doing what they like. Even if his life becomes shorter, when he needs you, he knows you’re there
Our Tibby cat is a 2005 model and she is still going! She was a feral kitten who we gentled, spayed and lived in and out of the barn. She eventually got friendly and became a house cat visitor but demanded to go out as she pleased. Today she is enjoying the comforts of inside life, but is still a demanding priss to go out and hunt, lol. Don't fret.. Pablo will let you know how to handle it when the time comes.
10 is pretty young. Not young cat, but healthy. With our cats that have been indoor/outdoor and living in a rural area, we just made it possible for them to come inside as they aged, but they preferred to hang out outside most of the time. Honestly, I think that's why they were so healthy and active for so long. They had the right amount of self directed outdoors and indoors time.
you guys are giving all of your animals an amazing life!!
Honestly, I don't know how any animal, barn or otherwise, could ask more than you give them. They are blessed to be with you ❤ I will warn you that many professional barn cats never, EVER adjust to the idea of being indoors, and may go off by themselves when they sense the time is near 😢
the fleeting mortality of your pets is an excellent way to describe the heartache.
How about making a mini-cat size barn closer to the house, so that you can feed him there so he can shrink his patrol area, and maybe a GPS tracker? This would give you guys a bit more peace of mind he's nearby? He's an outstanding outdoor cat, and overall, him being outside is the best thing for him.
💗 give him a warm comfy space he can access and let him be, that's all you can do to let him live his best life.
Just make him happy. Give him a bed in the barn. That's what we did for ours growing up ❤
Well I'm 55 yrs old and I've had cats all my life. I have added many rescues to my life and wouldnt change a thing. I call them my kids. My mom calls me animal poor but they come first. Good food and worming them on a regular basis ,with all the mice that they eat, will help them. Currently I have to make the decision I hate to make. Chico is 20 yrs old hes still hanging in there eating and using the litter box. I've had him since he was a kitten, I would call him "my other son" and he is. The kindest boy ever. I have been crying for months knowing this day is coming. My heart will shatter when he takes his last breathe. The hardest part about rescue is saying goodbye. 💔😭😭😭😭 I love how you and Allison love your animals. More people should be like that. We can only give the best life we can and love them. Thank you for being a good human.💯
Pablo is certified killer!
Be grateful for the 'fleeting mortality' of your animals. It means you can take care of them for their whole lives. It's a great gift, for both of you
Pablo may appreciate coming into the house as his age progresses. When he slows down and has difficulty climbing, running, etc., I'd offer him the choice of indoor comfort. He may behave then. Thank you for caring for your barn cats so well.❤️❤️❤️😽😽😽😽
He'll let you know when he's ready to be a house cat 😂🤣
If Pablo lives in your farm barn, he's protect from rain and snow. All you need to do is put a cardboard box with pet blankets. And every day give him plenty of water and food. Also every day talk to him, caress him and tell him that you love him very much. Tell him that you want him to live many years healthy and happy with you.
Barn cats that don’t want to be inside are living their best life. Humans love them and care for them and they get to do what their instincts demand.
I lived in VT for years and knew farmers that would bash unwanted puppies in the head and drown kittens if the didn’t want them.
But some farmers felt about their pets the same way we all feel. Knowing a devastating heartbreak is coming eventually for all of us.
As a cat owner, the mere thought of my cats aging tears me apart. We will be here with you no matter how things pan out for Mr. Escobar 💜
Have a warm shed for him, with everything that he would need such as food and blankets. Make sure there is plenty of space so you can lock him in there when he's sick and needs to be kept safe and comfortable
Make sure Pablo has access to warm, comfortable places to sleep, good food, and love...and when it seems like his time is ending, don't let him suffer. It's the best thing we can do for these wonderful creatures we share with whom we share lives. It hurts, but if you've given him the best possible life, it helps ease some of the sadness- and you seem to take great care of him. That line, 'the fleeting mortality of your pet...' that made me tear up, but it has never stopped me from having a pet. Their little lives are short, but they are wide lives when shared.
they might not be here for your entire life, but you are here for their whole life
❤9 years on a barn cat? That's astronomical! He's in indomitable! Love him whil he's here. He's got the 9 lives❤
My cat lived (and lived her best life) for 20 years. She was feral as a little kitten and she was tough to calm down. After about 5 or 6 years she became the best cat with a good strong personality. She became an indoor cat young, because she was FIV positive from birth. I was told she wouldn't live to be 2 years old. They are resilient. I let her be the cat she wanted to be, let Pablo live the life he wants and look after him.
Some barn cats will always be barn cats at heart. They never adjust to being a house cat. You provide him all the necessities he needs to be a comfortable and happy barn cat. Speaking as a veterinarian, with animals we have the blessing of balancing quality with quantity of life.
I work on a farm where stray cats become our barn cats. We had one who got very sick and we had to take him to the vet. One of our volunteers kept him at her house and it was the same thing. He was absolutely miserable. So once the stitches were healed we brought him back to the barn. We converted an old chicken coop that we had for raising chicks for just him. Put a little cat door on it so that he has complete peace and quiet and a home to go into so he's a little more protected. About 4 years later we found him laying in the coop snuggled and cozy but it passed away. Sometimes it's just about finding the happy medium
💜💜💜 that big heart is key and these comments have great advice
You need a cat garden. Kinda like a really huge chicken cage that make so cat can be outside without going too far - and being safe from the predators, land and air.
Many responsible owners closer to or in cities build those things, some cats can go out from the window but some of those are for "outside" cats. You have space so you can put in a lot of different structures to hide or climb in - and places to be in a sun. It would be nice retirement home.
Maybe setting out a rubber maid tote as a warm box with blankets and stuff inside would be a nice middle ground between inside and outside, or setting up a deck for him, I love your connection with himx😊
I had a cat that lived to 24 god I miss that little booger
Pablo looks like exactly like a Pablo.
I think Pablo is one of those kitties that will be a working barn cat until the day he isn't. If you get my drift. He's a lovely creature 🙂❤️
We made our, mostly, outside kitty a house in a bush. He was protected and lived out his years. I miss him.
My oldest just passed away last week, and you def notice changes in their behavior (RIP my sweet Eva, oh how I miss her). Just love them like you do, and try to give them as much attention as you can as they age. Fleeing is a perfect word. No matter how much you prepare, you'll never be ready for that day. But we will be here as a community to comfort any loss and help get through trauma and grief
My outdoor cat spent his entire life outdoors and that's where he was most happy. I would only bring him in when he was sick or the temps were too high, but he was not happy. He lived his last days outside and seemed very happy.
Beautiful kitty
it sounds like you already have the answer in your heart to let him live out the rest of his life out doors maybe in a few years as he gets older try to bring him in once again to see if he finally likes the comfort of the indoors. we had an cat that hated the inside life but when she was about 14 we brought her inside and she was happy and lived the remaining time of her life in luxury
Pablo has seen the good life. It's possible when it comes time if you give him an indoor outdoor situation. He may work with you and thrive.
they will tell you what they need. when the time comes. from what I've seen your a very astute. when it comes to your animals
We had to put down our beloved Kit-Kat just before her 21st Bday ❤